Going South

Down South, it’s customary to eat Hoppin’ John — a black-eyed pea and rice dish — and greens for good luck on New Year’s Day.

You won’t find that among the rice mixes made by Zatarain’s, but the New Orleans company’s line includes simple, surprisingly authentic-tasting versions of Red Beans and Rice, Black Beans and Rice, Dirty Rice, Jambalaya and Gumbo. All you do is add water and meat, poultry or seafood and simmer for about half an hour.

As for the Hoppin’ John, well, maybe next year.

Price: About $1.50.

Available: At most Spokane area supermarkets.